European-based prospects usually have the additional challenge of eventually having to come to North America to pursue a NHL career. Some prospects make a move to the Canadian junior leagues or a junior 'A' league ahead of the draft. Some come abroad to get into college. Some will make the move after being picked and when they are ready for the next step in their development. However, not everyone makes this move with the draft involved. Julius Mattila, the subject of today's prospect profile, is one such player.
Who is Julius Mattila?
According to Elite Prospects, Julius Mattila was born on October 7, 1997, which makes him one of the older players in this year's draft.